Saturday, October 26, 2013

We came to the shelter together as our last owner passed away and no one was able to take us in. Danni and I have been together since we born over 12 years ago, and would love to go to a new home together. You may think 12 is old, but we have plenty of years of playing, snoozing and chilling out ahead of us.

We used to be allowed to hang out in the garden during the day, but we always came in for dinner in the night. We aren't really night owls anyway, and prefer to be sitting on a comfy bed or couch.

If you have the room in your home and heart for two older gents, you can find us at the RSPCA Shoalhaven Shelter at 114 Flatrock Road, Mundamnia, (02) 4429 3410.

Friday, October 25, 2013

I absolutely love people, meeting people, making friends, young and old. Sometimes when I'm at the dog park, I forget about the other dogs and just go meet all the people hanging out. That's not to say I don't like other dogs, I just love people oh so much.

I would love to be a part of an active family that goes on weekend walks or spends their days at the dog beach. I am still learning it's not very nice to pull on the lead, but I promise I am getting better and better each day.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

A local Penrose woman appeared in Wollongong Local Court last Wednesday to face two charges of aggravated animal cruelty. 57 dogs and two birds had been seized from the woman property. The woman was convicted, placed on an 18-month good behaviour bond and banned from owning animals for a period of five years.

On Tuesday 27 November 2012, RSPCA Inspectors attended a property in Penrose after receiving a complaint about animals on the property.

The woman granted Inspectors access to her property and inside they observed 30-40 small breed dogs. The atmosphere in the house was stifling with a highly toxic smell of ammonia and the wooden floor was covered with a sludge of combined urine and faeces.

A total of 57 dogs and two birds were removed from the premises and subsequently surrendered to the RSPCA.

The animals were suffering from a variety of medical conditions including chronic skin conditions, ear infections, dental disease and several were in very poor body condition or were emaciated, with three dogs requiring euthanasia as they were in a condition that was cruel to be kept alive.

It was the opinion of the veterinarian that the animals had been in this condition for more than four weeks.

The Penrose woman was convicted of two charges of aggravated animal cruelty. She was placed on an 18-month Good Behaviour Bond and banned from owning animals for a period of five years.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have had the ongoing support of Lachlan Shire Council,” said Dr Ann-Margret Withers, RSPCA NSW Programs Veterinarian. “This contact with the local community continues to build a culture of care and responsible pet ownership in Condoblin and Lake Cargellico regions and make a difference to people with living with animals in regional communities.”

CAWS also advocates increasing awareness amongst community members and school-aged children about responsible pet ownership, animal welfare, humane treatment of animals and safety concepts around animals such as bite prevention.

“This program enables many residents of the district to have their pets desexed, vaccinated (dogs only) and microchipped at a very reduced price. This helps to reduce the number of unwanted puppies and kittens that are seen in the shire,” Dr Withers said.

To book in to see the RSPCA vets, call Willy Cunningham on 0427 952 547.

Photo left: Dogs when seized from property. Photo right: One of the dogs after two months in RSPCA care.

A local Schofields man failed to appear in Blacktown Local Court on Friday 11 October and was found guilty of four charges of animal cruelty against two dogs. Custody of the dogs was awarded to RSPCA NSW.

In April 2013, an RSPCA Inspector attended a premises at Schofields in response to a complaint regarding two dogs in poor condition at the property. The Inspector saw a male brindle Mastiff crossbreed and a female red boxer, both in poor body condition with its hips and ribs clearly visible. The boxer was tethered to a post under the awning of the house. There didn’t appear to be any water available.

Closer inspection of both dogs revealed they were both carrying a heavy flea burden. After there was no answer at the house, both dogs were then seized under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act Section 24J.

Examination by a vet revealed both dogs to have a body condition score of 5 (where 1 is an ideal body condition and 5 is the most underweight), heavy flea infestation, mild dehydration and possible anaemia. The vet concluded it would have taken at least 21 days for the dogs to have reached such a poor condition.

The Inspector returned to the house on 19 April and spoke to the man who claimed ownership of the dogs and he refused to surrender them on that day, and again several days later.

By June both dogs had showed significant improvement under the care of RSPCA NSW.

The local Schofields man was convicted of two charges of failure to provide veterinary treatment of an animal and two charges of failure to provide proper and sufficient food to an animal. He was fined $6,000 and $6,945.37 in vet / boarding fees. Custody of the two dogs was awarded to RSPCA NSW.

RSPCA NSW is calling for assistance from local Auburn residents following a spate of incidents involving Magpies in a local park.

Several birds have been found with their feet and bodies bound with string, hanging from trees in Grey Box Gum Reserve, on the corner of St Johns and Park Roads.

RSPCA NSW Chief Inspector David OShannessy reminded people that as a native species, magpies are protected throughout New South Wales and it is illegal to harm or kill the birds.

“Inflicting pain or distress on any animal or bird is an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and if convicted the guilty party can face a fine or even a jail sentence,” Chief Inspector OShannessy said.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Smoke Inhalation:
Exposure to hot air and smoke will cause dehydration and will often damage your pets airways. If your pet is wheezing, coughing, or having difficulty breathing there is a high risk of developing pneumonia so if any of these signs are present owners should always have their pet examined by a veterinarian. Owners can minimise the risk by removing their pet from the smoky environment into fresh air where this is possible. Make sure your pet has access to cool water to drink as this will rehydrate them and will ease any irritation in the mouth or throat. Ice cubes are useful to cool the water. You pet should be kept in a calm and comfortable environment - confining your pet in a safe enclosed room of the house (for example a laundry or bathroom) is advised.

Transporting fire affected pets:
You pet should be confined preferably in a pet carrier. Air conditioning should be on as this will aid breathing. Make sure you have a supply of drinking water and a bowl in case you are held up along the way.

Evacuation:
If you need to evacuate, take your animals to prearranged kennels or animal shelters outside the danger zone, or to family friends. If possible let your neighbours know about your evacuation plans and provide them with contact details.

If you need to leave your pet in the home for any reason ensure there is plenty of non-perishable food (for example dry food) and water in a spill proof container available. Make sure that your pet can access these easily. Put a notice in an obvious place saying that your pet is in the property.

If you are unable to leave (e.g. because of road blocks) a humidifier and/or fan can be used to provide moist, cool air to soothe your pet airways. If your pet is suffering from heat stress draping a loose, moist towel around the neck and across the back of your pet may also help. Be aware some animals will not tolerate this and if so do not do it as it will distress them further.

After the emergency:
Check your pets for any injuries and keep them indoors until you are satisfied the areas outside are safe. Dogs should be on a lead when they are allowed out to urinate or defecate. Remove any hazards such as sharp objects, dangerous materials, live wires and contaminated water from around your house and yard prior to allowing pets outside off lead. Be aware that familiar areas and scents have changed which may confuse your pet causing some changes in its behaviour. Keep a close watch on your pet’s health and behaviour for the next few days and take them to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

If your pet is lost:
Have the contact details for your local shelters, pound and veterinary practices handy and contact them daily.

Monday, October 21, 2013

An emergency could happen at any time. It's critical you prepare now to ensure your animals are protected from disasters that may place your animals in danger, including bushfires, extreme weather and storms. We hope the information below is helpful and encourages you to not only prepare for an evacuation now, but implement a practice run through of your emergency evacuation plan before it's needed.

To find more useful information about planning for and responding to emergencies, evacuating with animals, recovering from emergencies, emergency animal disease and other useful articles, please visit the DPI (Deparment of Primary Industries) website.

In the event of a disaster, you will need to act quickly so a strategic plan for your animals is critical.

Preparing your pets for evacuationMicrochip
Does your pet’s microchip details have your current contact information including your mobile phone number? If the disaster affects your local area, is your microchip alternative contact in a different suburb? Microchips will help reunite you with lost dogs, cats and horses if you become separated - confirm your pets' details are up-to-date.

Identification
Does your pet have clear identification including name and council registration tags? Fear may cause your animal to behave differently in an emergency situation, particularly if it can smell smoke or hear a disaster approaching. It may escape despite your best efforts, so clear identification with your pet’s name and your mobile number is critical.

Temporary accommodation
Where will you evacuate your pet to? Determine where you will evacuate your pets to now, whether that is a friend’s property or a boarding facility at an animal welfare shelter in a low risk area. When considering a shelter as a refuge for your pet, it's important to keep in mind summer is the busiest time of year for stray and abandoned animals and they may have limited capacity to assist. Contact your local RSPCA for more info.

Relocating your pet before a high risk day
Ensure your pet is contained when there is a high risk of emergency and consider relocating it as a precaution. It is safer to relocate your pet to temporary accommodation early rather than risking its safety.

Determining an emergency guardian
Identify someone close by who can action your evacuation plan if you are not home. This person may be a neighbour who is home during the day and a trusted person who you can leave keys with.

Transport
How will you transport your animals? Do you have a carry cage that is suitable for your small animals? Dogs and small animals should be kept with you (dogs on leads at all times) but cats are best relocated to temporary emergency accommodation for their own safety, such as a veterinary clinic, boarding facility or shelter. Transporting your horses will require more preparation so it is best to temporarily relocate or agist them on another property during high risk seasons.

Evacuation route
What route will you take to drive there and what if that route is blocked? Consider various access routes to exit the dangerous zones in your suburb.

Assembling a pet emergency kit

Ensure you have an emergency kit packed to provide for your pet’s needs. Refer to our emergency check list for a list of items you should pack in preparation.

If you have been advised by emergency services to stay in your home, it is crucial that you keep your pets with you and ensure your pet emergency kit is close at hand.

Preparing livestock and horses

Wherever you choose to evacuate livestock and horses, it is critical you do so early, use suitable transport and gather all the items needed for your animals’ stay including temporary fencing.

If you are unable to evacuate your livestock or horses, it's important you prepare a safe place for them to reside. This area should be large, have minimal vegetation, preferably contain a dam and have room for the animals to move freely. Confining livestock and horses or giving the animals access to roads may compromise their safety. If possible, please tag the side of your livestock or horses with an identification number.

Prepare your animals before leaving the property by providing access to food and clean water in containers that are resistant to fire. Remove any equipment that may cause discomfort or pose a greater risk during the emergency, including horse rugs.Helping wildlife

For more information on assisting wildlife during a disaster, please contact WIRES.

Saturday, October 19, 2013

I came to the RSPCA pregnant and homeless. I was scared for my kittens and wanted to make sure they would be healthy. Thanks to the vets and foster carers at the RSPCA, I had my kittens and helped them grow up strong and healthy and they have now found their furver homes. Now it's my turn.

Even though I am a mother cat, I am still only 9 months old and very much a kitten. I love people and am happiest when I get to spend time with my family. I'll happily play with toys by myself, but my favourite thing is to curl up on a lap for cuddles.

Friday, October 18, 2013

Our RSPCA Shelters are currently experiencing a shortage of toys
and treats for the animals in our care. With Halloween just around the
corner, we hope our annual ‘Tricks for Treats’ initiative will
encourage the public to donate pet-friendly treats and toys in the lead
up to 31 October.

“Treats are a very important part of our positive reinforcement training
methods with the animals,” said RSPCA Sydney Shelter Manager Adam
Farrugia. “Shelter staff and volunteers practice obedience training with
the animals on a daily basis, so treats are consumed quickly.”

While treats are used as a reward system for training, toys provide
comfort and stimulation for animals staying in an unfamiliar
environment.

“Animals up for adoption at the RSPCA stay with us as long as it takes
for them to find a new home,” said Mr Farrugia. “This means some animals
are with us for quite a while, so we like to ensure they’re provided
with toys that offer enrichment and comfort while they’re here.”

All donated dog and cat items can be dropped off at each of our shelters across New South Wales. If you would like to donate any toys or treats, you can drop them off at the following shelters:

RSPCA NSW is providing assistance wherever possible to assist the pets, livestock and wildlife that have been affected by the current bushfires throughout the state.

RSPCA NSW Chief Inspector David OShannessy said the RSPCA acts as a support agency to the Department of Primary Industries in these crises.

“Our Inspectors’ involvement has been liaising with people in fire-affected areas who haven’t been allowed back to their properties. We’ve been allowed into the areas and have been checking on people’s animals, ensuring they’re safe and providing food and water where required,” Chief Inspector OShannessy said.

The RSPCA is also assisting pet owners at evacuation centres. For example last night at the Kings Park evacuation centre at Raymond Terrace, local RSPCA shelter staff assisted 56 animals on-site with health checks, veterinary assistance, blankets, water bowls, leads and food, as well taking in another 20 animals via the RSPCA Ambulance for emergency boarding.

RSPCA NSW has launched an appeal for donations to help it continue to assist animals throughout the bushfire crisis. To donate visit our donation page here or call 1300 777 221.

My name's Simba and I'm looking for a best friend, a home and a family. I really like meeting new people and even shake hands with all the people I meet. Whenever I get to meet someone new, I can't help but smile and dance until I can give them a hug.

I really love going on walks on the cooler days and during the cooler times of the day. With all this fur it can get a little warm, so I need to keep my cool. If you could brush me a little too, it helps thin my coat and keeps me looking handsome.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

RSPCA shelters had a spring makeover recently, thanks to Bunnings. Almost $10, 000 worth of plants have brightened six of our shelters throughout the state: Illawarra, Blue Mountains, Hunter, Orange, Somersby and Sydney. When fully-grown the plants will provide a wind-break and shade for dog runs as well as improving the overall appearance of the shelters.
Sydney Shelter was also the lucky recipient of a table, chairs and a new gazebo top. Thank you Bunnings!

Colette

Fashion retailer Colette recently helped RSPCA cash in on the very popular trend of charity friendship bracelets. Made from blue and gold thread, highlighted by a gold ‘love’ charm, the bracelets were a popular choice with shoppers, who bought over 1,300 bracelets nationwide.
All profits from the sale of the bracelets were donated directly to RSPCA, with over $10,000 raised throughout Australia. NSW’s share came to $3,405. Colette’s campaign also raised funds for Canteen, McGrath Foundation, Autism Spectrum, Young Care, and ACT for kids with different coloured-bracelets.

RSPCA’s Chain Exchange was launched this year at the Million Paws Walk – perhaps you saw the box where people could drop in their chain collars and receive a free flat collar in return. The campaign relies on the generous donation by Rogz of over 500 collars, in differing sizes and colours to suit all.

The aim of The Chain Exchange is to raise awareness regarding chain, or correction, collars. Correction collars are a type of aversion training; most people are unaware that it is a form of punishment. Aversion training uses pain, fear or discomfort as a motivator to change behaviour.

There is significant evidence to show that uses of these chains harm our dogs, causing neck damage, increased anxiety and aggression. Unfortunately due to their price tag, and longevity they are used by many novice dog owners and aspiring trainers.

As an alternative, RSPCA NSW recommends reward-based training, where the dog has the power to make its own decisions to self motivate. If you would like tips on how to train your dog using this method see Tanya’s Training Tips.

Jet Pets is a consistent and highly-valued supporter of RSPCA NSW, and in the last couple of months have helped to rehome at least three dogs.

Cupcake the Pomeranian caught the eye of her new owner on our Adoptapet website, but how could her new Mum adopt her if she lived on the Gold Coast? Enter Jet Pets, who not only flew Cupcake from Sydney to Coolangatta, but also drove her to our Miami adoption centre as RSPCA Queensland didn’t have the facilities to collect her from the airport. Cupcake has certainly come a long way from being found on a puppy farm.

Jet Pets also stepped in to help Bumbles, a 16-week-old puppy who was surrended to our Broken Hill Shelter with a broken leg. Bumbles flew to our Sydney Shelter for treatment, and was adopted just over a month later.

Angel the Boxer also received a second chance at life thanks to Jet Pets. Two-year-old Angel was flown from Sydney to Melbourne to meet her new human Penny Jenkins. “She has a beautiful soul and I know we will be happy together,” Penny said.

Friday, October 11, 2013

I've been at the shelter for ages and ages with my friend Aby and we both really want to find a furever home.

I have a ton of energy and love playing with people and although I am pretty big, I'm really a softie. I love to snuggle up to you and get plenty of belly rubs and chin scratches. I would love to find a family that could go for long walks in the afternoons and adventures on the weekend.

If you want a new friend for life, come meet me at the RSPCA Sydney Shelter in Yagoona; 201 Rookwood Road, Yagoona, 2199, (02) 9770 7555

Adoptions:

Monday to Tuesday: 9.30am to 3.00pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday to Sunday: 9.30am to 3.00pm
Closed on Public Holidays

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Is your pet wise beyond their years? Do they always know the right way to cheer you up?

If you have been lucky enough to have an animal in your family you will know that they can be wise, understanding and teach us many things about life. That's why we want you to share with us your wise animal.

Send us an Instagram picture of your furry friend, in their wisest moment and you could WIN one of two copies of Dr Michael Archinal's new book titled Animal Wisdom.

Dr Michael Archinal, one of Australia's most respected vets is releasing the book Animal Wisdom, due out October. It's full of fascinating information based on scientific research from around the world and his own heart-warming stories from his own practice about how much we can learn from animals.

Animals have perfected the art of eating, sleeping, exercising according to their needs and know how to use stress in a positive way. Written in a personable and practical style, the book teaches us about the many surprising benefits of sharing our lives with animals. It shows that we can benefit spiritually but also in terms of mental and physical health, disease prevention and longevity proven in numerous scientific studies which are referenced throughout.

About the author:
Dr Michael Archinal is a vet with over twenty-six years’ experience. He is the director of four veterinary clinics in Canberra and has a national media profile due to his print, radio and television contributions. Michael has been a weekly guest presenter for thirteen years on Channel Nine’s Mornings, a guest on ABC radio talk-back for fourteen years, a columnist for Dog’s Life magazine for nine years and he contributes to National ABC afternoon radio.

Terms
and Conditions

The two winners will be
picked by RSPCA Animania Editor Jen Walker

Photos must be an original photo

Entrants can only enter once into the competition

Entrants must be located with Australia, prizes will only be sent within Australia.

The
decision on all matters relating to the competition is final, and no
correspondence will be entered into concerning the competition's results.

Entries
from persons under the age of 18 must have adult consent

Competition opens (12pm AEST 10/10/13)

Competition closes (12pm AEST 23/10/13)

Winners will be notified on Instagram to contact RSPCA NSW for prize collection.

Marketing Consultancy Experian selected RSPCA NSW as their Charity of the Year and we have been overwhelmed by their generosity so far. To launch the relationship Experian held a bake sale and raised $163.35, and this is on top of their workplace giving program.

Next, seven volunteers came to our Sydney Shelter in mid-September to help us pack bags for one of our community outreach program’s events. Thank you to everyone who gave their time that day. We returned the favour in late September by conducting a lunchtime education session at Experian’s offices.

We are thrilled to be working with such an eager group and look forward to exploring other ways in which we can support each other.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Good Meowning! It's an absolute pleasure to meet you. My name is Luca.

I'm looking for a family that wants to be loved. I am a pretty affectionate guy and I love showing my affection and cuddling up to people. I love being picked up, cuddled and hanging out on my hoomans laps, I always purr the loudest during these moments.

I like playing with toys, but I love playing in boxes. Whenever there is a delivery here, I get to jump in and out of the boxes and pretend I am a lion in a cave. If you want to play with me, you can pretend to come into the box and I can quickly swot you away. It's pretty fun!

Friday, October 4, 2013

My last family couldn't look after me very well, so I've come to the RSPCA to find a loving family that will take care of me. I'm lots of fun as I have a ton of energy, and will often do laps around the yard, enjoying to spring air. I would love to be able to go on afternoon walks with my family.

I love spending nights with the family inside the house, as the backyard can get a little lonely if I'm locked up outside all day. My foster mum at the moment let's me explore the house, inside and out, and I absolutely love it.

If you want a new friend for life, come meet me at the RSPCA Sydney Shelter in Yagoona; 201 Rookwood Road, Yagoona, 2199, (02) 9770 7555

Adoptions:

Monday to Tuesday: 9.30am to 3.00pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday to Sunday: 9.30am to 3.00pm
Closed on Public Holidays

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Would you like to be one of the
first to own the newly released DVD Penguins – Spy In The Huddle?

The
series uses a range of super-realistic animatronic cameras disguised as
penguins, chicks and eggs. The spy cams discover what it really means to be a
penguin, giving us a whole new perspective on the behaviour and extreme
survival tactics of these incredible and hugely charismatic birds.

To be in the
draw to win one of three DVDs kindly supplied by Roadshow Entertainment, simply
subscribe to our wonderful kids’ magazine Animania during October directly through out RSPCA subscription team on 02 9770 7555. Animania Magazine

RSPCA’s Animania magazine is filled with information about animals
from A to Zany: pet care advice from RSPCA staff and veterinarians, mini
posters, creature features and animal rescue stories. Kids have fun
while learning about animals! There are also loads of awesome prizes to
win in each issue as kids’ brains and comprehension skills are tested
with age appropriate puzzles and quizzes, and readers are encouraged to
send in their drawings, letters and photos to receive a special gift.

All this for only $25 for four issues! Plus, proceeds from the sales of
Animania Magazine goes towards the good work of the RSPCA!

Terms
and Conditions

Winners are randomly picked from all subscribers and resubscribers that subscribe directly through the RSPCA team during the month of October 2013.

The
decision on all matters relating to the competition is final, and no
correspondence will be entered into concerning the competition's results.

Winners
will be contacted via post, through the Editor and Roadshow Entertainment

Entries
from persons under the age of 18 must have adult consent

Competition
opens at 9am AEST, 1st October 2013. Competition closes on 31st October 2013. Competition winners will be contacted by 15th November 2013.

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

A local Guildford woman failed to appear in Fairfield Local Court yesterday on Thursday to face two charges of animal cruelty against a German Shepherd dog in her care. The woman was convicted ex-parte, fined, ordered to report to Police for fingerprinting and banned from owning animals for a period of five years.

On Wednesday 5 June 2013, RSPCA Inspectors attended a property in Guildford following a complaint about a dog.

Inspectors found an adult female German Shepherd dog with a metal collar embedded in her neck. The skin around the neck area was red, inflamed and required immediate veterinary attention so the dog was immediately seized.

In an interview conducted on Thursday 6 June 2013, the woman admitted being the owner of the dog and being aware of her condition.

RSPCA veterinarians were able to surgically remove the collar from the dog’s neck. Some of the chain links of the collar were buried so deep that they submerged into the subcutaneous tissue of the neck.

Further examination concluded that the dog would have been in unnecessary pain and suffering as a result of the embedded collar for at least two weeks prior to seizure.

The Guildford woman failed to appear in court and was convicted ex-parte on two charges of animal cruelty, failure to exercise reasonable care and failure to provide veterinary treatment for an embedded collar. She was ordered to pay $703.01 in RSPCA veterinary charges, fined $800, report to Police for fingerprinting and banned from owning animals for a period of five years.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

I haven't seen much outside this shelter as I was born here. The people are friendly and I get lots of cuddles and playtime with the volunteers. I'm getting used to being handled, but I am starting to like cuddles more and more.

One day, I hope to be a part of a loving family, with my own little hutch and a whole lettuce leaf to munch on all day. I love running around on the grass and exploring the leafy land, so we can play in the yard anytime.

If you don't mind teaching me about the outside world, I would love to be a part of your family. Come adopt me from the RSPCA Illawarra Shelter at Industrial Road,
Unanderra, 2526 or call the team on (02) 47271 3410.

Adoptions:
Friday to Wednesday: 9.00am to 4.00pm
Thursday: Closed
Closed on Public Holidays

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About us

The RSPCA - The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - is Australia's pre-eminent animal welfare organisation. We provide a strong voice for animals experiencing cruelty and neglect. The RSPCA is not a government agency and receives only a very small amount of funding from the Government. We rely on the generosity of the community and our own fundraising initiatives to fund our vital work.